Build, experiment, operate and enjoy! These are the fundamental goals of the QRPer, and this is the book to help you get in on the action! There are thousands of active QRPers, and you can get involved with help from ARRL's Low Power Communication. Links: · Quick -- Order ARRL's Low Power Communication · Table of Contents · Shop the Publications Catalog · Locate an ARRL Publications Dealer

Contents

• Operating tips and station suggestions
• Kit and commercial gear information
• DXing and contesting tips
• Antennas, including hidden or low profile designs
• Harnessing the sun to power your station
• Computer applications for logging, satellite tracking, antenna modeling, propagation prediction and packet radio
• Emergency and portable communications, including Year 2000 steps for testing your computer
• QRP clubs and internet sites

What is QRP?

QRP is the Q signal for low power. It's also used to describe low power communications (for example, "Jim enjoys QRP operating!"). Want to build a complete station for less than $100? Interested in communicating with every corner of the globe using less than 5 Watts? --Then you're on the way to becoming a QRPer!

Table of Contents

v   Foreword
vii   Acknowledgements
1-1   The Essence of QRP
2-1   Why We Do What We Do
3-1   Getting Started
4-1   QRP Gear
5-1   Advanced QRP Techniques
6-1   Antennas for QRP
7-1   HF Propagation for the QRPer
8-1   Solar Power and Vintage QRP
9-1   Computers, Software and the Internet
10-1   Emergency Communications
11-1   QRP Clubs
12-1   Buying and Trading Used Equipment
Appendix A   QRP Calling Frequencies
Appendix B   QRP Net Schedules
Appendix C   Suppliers and Manufacturers
Appendix D   QRP Club Web Sites and Membership Information